Call to End Political Violence After Tragic Death

In a united front, all living former U.S. presidents are advocating for an end to political violence following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a conservative influencer.

Statements were made on social media by former presidents Biden, Bush, and Clinton in response to the fatal shooting of 31-year-old Kirk, who was speaking at an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.

Authorities announced on Thursday that they were still in search of the individual responsible for the shooting. Kirk was reportedly killed with a powerful rifle fired from a campus building, before the shooter fled to a nearby neighborhood. The FBI has confirmed that the weapon used in the incident has been recovered.

His death has raised alarms and prompted calls for reducing the heightened political tensions that plague the nation.

Here’s a look at the former presidents’ reactions:

President Biden: “There is no place in our country for this type of violence. That has to end now. Jill and I pray for Charlie Kirk’s family and loved ones.”

President Obama: “We still don’t know what motivated this act. Those who shot and killed Charlie Kirk do not represent the values we should uphold in our democracy. Michelle and I pray for Charlie’s family, especially his wife Erica and their children.”

President Bush: “Charlie Kirk was murdered in cold blood while sharing his political views. This happened on a university campus, a place where open exchange of ideas must be protected. We must reject violence and vitriol in the public sphere. Other political parties are not our enemies; they are our fellow citizens. May God bless Charlie Kirk and his family, and may God lead America toward civility.”

President Clinton: “I am saddened and angered by Charlie Kirk’s murder. I hope we can all take a moment for serious reflection and commit to engaging in discussions passionately, yet peacefully. Hillary and I hold Erica, their children, and the entire family in our prayers.”

Additionally, both President Trump and Vice President Vance had personal connections with Kirk, who co-founded the influential conservative youth activist group, Turning Point USA, in 2012.

On Wednesday, Vance expressed his grief on social media, sharing a heartfelt message about their friendship: “Charlie Kirk was a true friend. A person who always understood you. I’ll be traveling to Utah on Thursday to meet with Kirk’s family.”

Trump also released a video statement on Wednesday night, pledging to “identify each and every individual who played a part in this tragic event and in other acts of political violence.”